Palisade cells have several structural features that make it very difficult for them to burst. These features include:
1. Cell Wall: Palisade cells have a thickened and rigid cell wall, which provides strength and support. The cell wall is made up of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which make it highly resistant to bursting.
2. Central Vacuole: Palisade cells typically have a large central vacuole, which helps maintain osmotic balance and regulate water content in the cell. The vacuole acts as a storage compartment for water, ions, and other substances, helping to prevent excessive influx of water that could cause cell bursting.
3. Chloroplasts: Palisade cells contain a high number of chloroplasts, responsible for photosynthesis. These chloroplasts are tightly packed, providing structural stability to the cell and limiting the available space for water accumulation.
4. Cuticle Layer: On the outer surface of the palisade cell, there is often a thin, waxy cuticle layer. This layer acts as a water-repellent barrier, preventing excessive water uptake and reducing the risk of bursting.
5. Turgor Pressure Regulation: Palisade cells, like other plant cells, regulate their turgor pressure (internal osmotic pressure) through the balance of water uptake and solute concentration. This prevents over-hydration and maintains cell integrity, ensuring that the cell is not overwhelmed by water and does not burst.
Overall, the combination of a rigid cell wall, central vacuole, tightly packed chloroplasts, cuticle layer, and turgor pressure regulation work together to make it very difficult for a palisade cell to burst.
Why is it very difficult for a palisade cell to burst?
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